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Pay Osi

Osi Umenyiora has had a contentious tenure with the Giants. It hit a new apex this week when a heated affidavit was released as part of the NFL players’ lawsuit against the owners. In the statement, Osi says that in 2008 he was promised a renegotiated contract or trade prior to the 2010 season by Giants GM Jerry Reese contingent on playing at a continued high level.

Osi sounds angry and bitter but this has also been blown out of proportion by the press. Osi tore his meniscus in the 2008 preseason and struggled in 2009 while feuding with the coaching staff. Presumably, he didn’t deserve a new contract especially with the injury concerns. However, Osi had a great 2010, leading the team in sacks and posting a NFL-record 10 forced fumbles despite a torn labrum. Osi may have a beef with playing time or the depth chart, but the Giants always have a glut of defensive ends. He had to deal with the same problem in 2007 when the team won the Super Bowl and he made the Pro Bowl, except now he’s finally getting back into form.

Osi still probably isn’t too happy about his salary. He is underpaid. He had a major role in winning the Super Bowl and the Giants owe him for that. His teammate, Eli Manning, is one of the highest-paid players in the league. At the same time, perhaps this is less against the Giants and more in helping the players in the lockout. Despite his unhappiness, Osi has played hard the last two seasons. Losing him would be a huge blow to the defensive line and the entire defense. Osi is a beast. He doesn’t hit quarterbacks; he crushes them. From a strictly on-the-field standpoint, the Giants should give Osi a raise, not only to keep him in blue but to keep him happy. They can’t afford not to.